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Vocabulary Development
Classrooms across the state are encouraging students to dive into the world of words through engaging in reading multiple genres and a variety of texts around a thematic topic or theme. As educators are working with families to enhance student vocabulary, you may want to share a variety of instructional approaches that have students engaged in authentic text including Read Alouds, Conversations and Questions, Cross-Curricular Vocabulary, Writing Assignments, Independent Reading, and Explicit Vocabulary Instruction. Continue to encourage families to utilize the resources found on the VDOE website as well as the "Family Supports for Reading” in the Resource Hub.
Southside Virginia Writing Project Summer Institute
During the SVWP Summer Institute at Longwood University, educators will grow as writers, researchers, and leaders as they collaborate with other educators. PreK-16 teachers and administrators who complete the Summer Institute will earn the title of “teacher consultant,” a designation recognized at all National Writing Project sites across the country and a process that prepares educators to conduct professional development in your district and beyond. In addition, research shows that students of teachers who participate in National Writing Project sites’ Summer Institutes demonstrate higher writing competencies and test scores. See this flier for details.
2025 Health and Physical Activity Institute July 14-16
HPAI registration is now open. The Institute provides an opportunity for teachers to share new and innovative teaching and learning practices. The primary objective of the initiative is to improve the quality of health and physical education instruction and provide support to implement the VDOE SOL for health and physical education. The institute consists of a variety of engaging workshops and general sessions. Register today!
Parent Resources
In collaboration with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Virginia ABC Community Health & Engagement division offers free Power of Parents handbooks and training to empower caregivers to have intentional and ongoing conversations with teens about the dangers of underage drinking and drug use. The evidence-based books have a wealth practical advice to help start the conversation, share the facts and keep lines of communication open with teens. Request free handbooks or schedule a training event for parents, online or in-person.
Brown Teacher Research Fellowship
This Fellowship provides Virginia educators the opportunity to research and study a specific aspect of history and create educational resources to support the Library of Virginia’s ongoing exhibition and education programs. Over the course of the summer, the Brown Fellows work with staff members—including consultation with reference and archival staff members—to pursue research on the selected topic for the year. The Brown Fellows are required to make a presentation at their regional Brown Teacher Institute based on their research. Applications are due May 11.
EL Assessment Webinar
The WIDA-WCEPS Webinar Series are free hour-long monthly sessions on a topic relevant to educators focusing on resources and helpful tips. Join the free webinar “Gathering Evidence Using Format Assessment Tools” on April 1 at 6 p.m. Registration is now open.
Elevating Virginia Educators!
Over the past few weeks, VDOE and school divisions from across the Commonwealth have been celebrating the 2026 Regional Teachers of the Year. One of these outstanding educators will be named the Virginia Teacher of the Year and celebrate alongside Governor Youngkin this spring. Follow along with VDOE to see who the regional teacher of the year is in your area! #ElevateEducatorsVA
VMFA Special Exhibition
From April 5– September 28, 2025, VMFA will have a special exhibition of Frida: Beyond the Myth. This exhibition examines how this extraordinary artist crafted her image. This is free for K-12 educators as well as college educators with an ID. To inquire about availability, call 804.340.1405.
2025 Civics for All of US Teacher Institute
Educators working with grades 3–12 are invited to apply to attend the 2025 Civics for All of US Teacher Institute with the National Archives in Washington, DC. The institute will be offered twice: July 14–July 17 and July 29–August 1. Each week, 50 educators will learn how to use National Archives holdings to teach the civic knowledge and skills students need for civic engagement in the 21st century. Applications are accepted by the National Archives Foundation through March 31.
Gilder Lehrman Hosts 2025 National History Teacher of the Year
Nominations for any eligible K-12 teacher are due April 30 and must be submitted on the Gilder Lehrman website. Nominators are asked to provide contact information for themselves and information about the nominee, including a short statement about why the nominee should be honored. Nominations can be made by any individual who is familiar with the teacher’s work, including students, parents of students, colleagues, etc. Nominated teachers receive an email notification with instructions on how to submit all materials to be considered for the State History Teacher of the Year. Nominate an outstanding history teacher today.
Opening Doors - Unlocking Potential-2025 (ODUP-2025)
This virtual professional development is an event bringing together professionals and parents from across the Commonwealth of Virginia to engage in dialogue, discussion, and learning methods to strengthen academic outcomes for children who are deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind to increase the knowledge and skills of those who can have a positive impact on a student’s educational process. Participants will use the Whova platform for this event, providing an interactive experience for attendees, including networking opportunities, session schedules, and event resources. For additional information, visit TAC-DHH or contact Tracey Yurechko
SURN Summer Online Courses: June 16-July 20
Designed for teachers and instructional leaders, each W&M SURN online course in the summer series is organized into five modules (one per week) with opportunities to explore relevant topics and apply what you learn to your own context. Participants can expect to spend 4-6 flexible, asynchronous hours online each week, engaging in activities that help build your repertoire of practical strategies and skills. Learn more or register today. Email questions to surn@wm.edu.
Innovation Summit
Registration is now open for the Innovation Summit Rethinking Learning and Teaching for the Future Across Virginia! Hosted by the ODU Center for Educational Innovation & Opportunity, this free professional learning conference showcases the innovative work of the Virginia College Partnership Lab Schools and other visionary educators and leaders. Join your peers on April 23-24, on the main campus of Old Dominion University, Norfolk.
2025 Teacher Institute at Jamestown Settlement
Virginia elementary and secondary school teachers are invited to apply for this five-day, professional development program. Teachers will explore the three cultures – Powhatan Indian, English and West Central African – that converged at Jamestown in the early 17th century. Participating in authentic learning activities and collaborating with JYF staff and fellow teachers, participants will create lessons and activities they can use in the classroom for years to come. Applications are open until April 14 at 9 a.m.
VIRGINIA COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS
Mathematics Specialist Program Opportunities
Old Dominion University is recruiting MSP students for one new cohort for the summer session May 19 – August 8. The online MSP program is for licensed teachers with three or more years of successful mathematics teaching. It is designed for full-time educators, with assignments aligned with job responsibilities and designed to enhance children's or adults' understanding of mathematics, learning, teaching, or leadership. This cohort will be for the non-degree post baccalaureate MSP option. After completing this program option, participants can apply to VDOE for the MSP Endorsement.
Online M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction Information Sessions
The University of Virginia 100% online and asynchronous M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction program at UVA provides opportunities for you to pursue graduate studies or licensure requirements to enhance your instructional practice. Select an area of emphasis that aligns with your professional and educational goals. Program faculty and staff will be available to give an overview and answer questions. A reduced tuition rate is available for VA educators. Register for an upcoming information session April 8 at: 8 p.m. (ET) or May 6, at 8 p.m. (ET).
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